Gaming machine and button cover assembly for use with gaming machines

ABSTRACT

A gaming machine and a cover assembly for use with the gaming machine is described herein. The gaming machine includes a plurality of input buttons that are coupled to a cabinet assembly. The cover assembly includes a cover that is coupled to the cabinet assembly and oriented with respect to at least one button of the plurality of buttons. The cover is movable between a first position wherein the cover at least partially encapsulates the at least one input button, and a second position wherein the cover does not encapsulate the input button such that the input button is accessible by a player of the gaming machine.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/365,551, filed Feb. 3, 2012, entitled Systemsand Methods for Confirming Assistance Requests in Electronic GamingMachines, which is incorporated herein by reference. This applicationclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/473,181 filed Apr. 8, 2011, and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/505,695, filed Jul. 8, 2011, which are each incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to gaming machines, and moreparticularly, to a cover assembly for use with a gaming machine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

At least some known gaming machines include a cabinet assembly, adisplay that is coupled to the cabinet assembly for displaying a game,and a plurality of input buttons that are coupled to the cabinetassembly to enable a player to play the game displayed on the displaydevice. At least some known input buttons include a push-button typeswitch. For example, a gaming machine may include a plurality ofpush-buttons permitting the player to indicate an input, such as to“hold” a card, place a “bet” of a monetary amount, “deal” cards or thelike. At least some known gaming machines also include a “service”button to indicate to a gaming establishment that a particular machinerequires service or repair. A casino or the like has a group ofattendants that service a call button when energized and/or actuated bya game player/operator. The attending consists of an attendant going tothe machine and checking with the player/operator as to what is neededsince the service call button was hit, energized and usually lit.

In the gaming machine environment, the push-buttons are generallymounted to a portion of the gaming machine cabinet, such as a metalpanel, so that they may be easily accessible. One problem with this isthat the sensitivity of the buttons and their convenient placement oftenleads to certain buttons being inadvertently or accidentally pressed.For example, in Blackjack, the player may accidentally press “deal” whenhe or she intends to “hold”. In addition, the player may accidentallypress or activate the “service” button requiring a technician to bedispatched even though no service is required.

Moreover, as a player continues to play the games, they often getexcited and over push or inadvertently push/energize the Service Callbutton. This may be because of being excited, because of a glancing hitto the button in error, or a purposeful hit to the wrong button (forexample hitting a service call rather that a cash-out request). Oncepressed, the game being played in suspended and a service request signalis relayed to personnel or attendants who may either be stationed on thegaming floor or otherwise will be deployed to the gaming machine fromwhich the service signal was transmitted. While there are manylegitimate reasons for requesting assistance, players will often falselypress the service button, either accidentally or through amisunderstanding of its intended use. Since casino personnel cannot tellthe difference between a legitimate request for assistance and a falserequest, they must investigate each request as if the request werelegitimate. It should be readily apparent that false requests result ina significant amount of wasted time and effort by casino personnel.

Therefore, it is desirable to have a button which is easily accessibleto users while helping to prevent accidental activations or presses andreduce or even eliminate such waste. The present invention is aimed atthe problem identified above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the present invention, a cover assembly for use with agaming machine is provided. The gaming machine includes a plurality ofinput buttons that are coupled to a cabinet assembly. The cover assemblyincludes a cover that is coupled to the cabinet assembly and orientedwith respect to at least one input button of the plurality of inputbuttons. The cover is movable between a first position wherein the coverat least partially encapsulates the at least one input button, and asecond position wherein the cover does not encapsulate the input buttonsuch that the input button is accessible by a player of the gamingmachine.

In another aspect of the present invention, a cover assembly for usewith a gaming machine is provided. The gaming machine includes a cabinetassembly that includes an outer surface, and at least one input buttonthat is coupled to the cabinet assembly outer surface. The coverassembly includes a support assembly and a cover. The support assemblyis coupled to the cabinet assembly surface and is oriented adjacent tothe at least one input button. The cover is coupled to the supportassembly. The support assembly is configured to support the cover fromthe cabinet assembly. The cover includes a top wall and a sidewall thatextends outwardly from the top wall. The sidewall includes an innersurface that defines a cavity that is configured to receive the at leastone input button therein. The cover is movable between a first positionwherein the cover at least partially encapsulates the input button, anda second position wherein the cover does not encapsulate the inputbutton such that the input button is accessible by a player of thegaming machine.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine isprovided. The gaming machine includes a cabinet assembly that includesan outer surface and a display device that is coupled to the cabinetassembly. The display device is configured to display a game. Aplurality of input buttons are coupled to the cabinet assembly to enablea player to play the game. A cover assembly is coupled to the cabinetassembly and is oriented with respect to at least one input button ofthe plurality of input buttons. The cover assembly includes a cover thatis coupled to the cabinet assembly. The cover is movable between a firstposition wherein the cover at least partially encapsulates the at leastone input button, and a second position wherein the cover does notencapsulate the input button such that the input button is accessible bythe player.

Some embodiments are directed to an electronic gaming machine (EGM)configured for providing an interactive game which includes a display,memory containing display content including game play content, a playerinterface for inputting information and player selections relating tothe interactive game, wherein the player interface includes a servicebutton, and a game controller configured for facilitating game play ofthe interactive game, including receiving information from the playerinterface and providing game content on the display during game play.The aforementioned EGM further includes programming which is responsiveto actuation of the service button to provide a prompt on the display,wherein the prompt requests confirmation of the intention to actuate theservice button and associated assistance. The EGM includes communicationpathways to a server or a network of gaming machines.

In some embodiments, the gaming machine has at least one display, andthe gaming machine is comprised of a service request signal actuator,service request data interface, and a service request signal indicator.The service request signal actuator operatively associated with thegaming machine and configured for transmitting a service request signalrelating to a service request and identifying the associated gamingmachine upon actuation thereof. The service request data interface incommunication with the service request actuator and configured for (i)transmitting a service request verification query for presentation onthe display, the transmission of the service request verification querybeing responsive to the detection of the service request signal, whereinthe query requests an input response including one of either averification of the service request or a negation of the servicerequest, (ii) detecting the input response to the service requestverification query, (iii) determining whether the input response eitheris a verification of the service request or a negation of the servicerequest, and (iv) terminating the transmission of the service requestverification query responsive to the determination of that the inputresponse received is a negation of the service request. The servicerequest indicator in communication with the service request datainterface, wherein the service request indicator is configured toindicate a verified service request to the gaming machine associatedtherewith responsive to the determination that the input responsereceived is a verification of the service request.

In some embodiments, the service request signal actuator is a mechanicalbutton or a touch sensitive display.

In some embodiments, the service request data interface establishes aninput based on a player selected portion of the display.

In some embodiments, the service request indicator is in communicationwith a network of gaming machines, receives and/or indicates a verifiedservice request to the network.

In some embodiments, the service request data interface may suspendfurther play on the gaming machine for a set period of time, if theservice request data interface does not receive verification or negationof the service request within the set period of time, then the servicerequest data interface permits play to continue on the gaming machine.In some embodiments, the display illustrates the set period of time by acountdown of numbers.

Some embodiments of the invention are also directed to methods forconfirming a service request in a gaming machine. An exemplary methodmay include the steps of: receiving a service request signal relating toa service request; transmitting a service request verification query forpresentation on the display, the transmission of the service requestverification query being responsive to the detection of the servicerequest signal, wherein the query requests an input response includingone of either a verification of the service request or a negation of theservice request; receiving the input response to the service requestverification query; determining whether the input response is either averification of the service request or a negation of the servicerequest; and transmitting a verified service request signal if inputresponse is a verification of the service request; or terminating thetransmission of the service request verification query responsive to thedetermination of that the input response received is a negation of theservice request.

In some embodiments, the transmission of a service request signaloriginates from a mechanical button or a touch sensitive display, andthe input response is based on the receiving of a signal indicating thata player selected portion of the display has been touched.

In some embodiments, the verified service request is communicated to thenetwork.

In some embodiments, the aforementioned method further include the stepof suspending the game play on the gaming machine and then releasing thegame from the suspended state if no verification input or negation inputof the service request is received within the predetermined period oftime or the transmission of the service request verification query isterminated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated asthe same becomes better understood by reference to the followingdetailed description when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine including a coverassembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 2 ina first position;

FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 2 ina second position;

FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective views of the cover assembly shown in FIG.2;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary support assembly that maybe used with the cover assembly shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary cover that may be used withthe cover assembly shown in FIG. 2;

FIGS. 10 and 11 are schematic side views of the cover assembly shown inFIG. 2; and

FIGS. 12-14 are schematic top views of the cover assembly shown in FIG.2.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The exemplary apparatus and methods described herein overcome at leastsome disadvantages of known gaming machines by providing a coverassembly that selectively covers a service call button to facilitatepreventing undesired actuation of the service call button by a player.More specifically, the cover assembly includes a cover that is movablebetween a closed position wherein the cover at least partiallyencapsulates the service call button to prevent actuation of the buttonby a player, and an open position wherein the cover does not encapsulatethe service call button such that the service call button is accessibleby the player. By providing a cover assembly that selectively covers theservice call button, the occurrences of the player inadvertentlypressing the service call button and requesting an casino attendant isreduced. As such, the cost of operating the gaming machine is reduced.

In general, the gaming machine described herein includes a coverassembly for use with a push button. The cover assembly includes adurable plastic or metal shell that has a hinge means and a simple meansfor securing the cover assembly to the gaming machine console. At leastsome service calls that are initiated by a player pressing a servicecall button are made in error and caused by the player inadvertentlyhitting the call button. The cover assembly facilitates preventing thisby selectively covering the service call button. The amount of erroneousservice calls and attendant response to the erroneous calls are reduced,which in turn saves time and money, and may also keep the gaming machinein play so that revenue is likely to be increased. These savings mayprovide better service to other calls or, for large facilities, resultin the need for fewer attendants.

The embodiments described herein include a simple, inexpensive yetdurable cover device that is suitable to be placed on specific gamingbuttons to prevent inadvertent service calls. In one embodiment, thecover assembly is placed and removably secured on the gaming machine.This may be as an original equipment option or an add-on system sold inthe gaming casinos aftermarket. The cover assembly described herein maybe manufactured at low volumes by very simple means and in high volumeproduction by more complex and controlled systems.

In the gaming industry, incremental improvements add up very quickly dueto the volume of gaming machines in the industry and the over-all use ofeach machine. The cover assembly enable savings of time and money for arelatively small investment and change to the gaming machines.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary gaming machine 10 such as,for example, an electronic gaming machines (EGM). A preferred embodimentof the present invention is a video gaming machine preferably installedin a casino. One such gaming machine is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/365,551, filed Feb. 3, 2012, which is herebyincorporated by reference. In the illustrated embodiment, the gamingmachine 10 includes a cabinet assembly 12, a display device 14 coupledto the cabinet assembly 12 for displaying a plurality of games, a userinput device 16 coupled to the cabinet assembly 12 to enable a player tointerface with the gaming machine 10, and a gaming controller (notshown) that is operatively coupled to the display device 14 and the userinput device 16 to enable a player to play games displayed on thedisplay device 14.

In one embodiment, the cabinet assembly 12 includes a first cabinet,i.e. an upper cabinet 18, and a second cabinet, i.e. a lower cabinet 20.The display device 14 is coupled to the upper cabinet 18, and ispositioned within the upper cabinet 18 such that the display device 14is accessible by the player. The user input device 16 is coupled to thelower cabinet 20 such that the user input device 16 may be accessed bythe player. Moreover, the user input device 16 is coupled to a topsurface 22 of the lower cabinet 20 such that the user input device 16 isoriented towards the player to enable the player to easily operate theuser input device 16 for the games displayed on the display device 14.

In one embodiment, the display device 14 is configured to display a gamescreen 24 that includes indicia and/or symbols for use in a game, e.g.,cards used by a card game, roulette wheel and symbols used in a roulettegame, and reels used in a reel game. The game screen 24 may include anytype of game including, but not limited to, a video slot game, a kenogame, a blackjack game, a video poker game, or any type of game whichallows a player to make a wager, play a game, and potentially providethe player an award based on an outcome of the game and a paytable. Inone embodiment, display device 14 may include a plurality of mechanicalreels, a roulette wheel, a playing card table, and/or any suitabledevice that enables the player to play a game on the gaming machine 10.

The user input device 16 includes a plurality of input buttons 26. Inone embodiment, the input buttons 26 include a service call button 28, aplurality of BET switches 30 for inputting a wager on a game, aplurality of selection switches 32 for selecting a betting line and/orcard, a MAXBET switch 34 for inputting a maximum wager, a PAYOUT switch36 for ending a gaming session and dispensing accumulated gaming creditsto the player, and a start button, i.e. a SPIN/DEAL button 38 toinitiate an output of a game.

The service call button 28 enables the player to request assistance fromcasino personnel. The service call button 28 is configured to transmit,to the gaming controller, a signal that is indicative of a request forservice of the gaming machine 10. The gaming controller transmits thesignal to a monitoring system (not shown), which is then relayed topersonnel or attendants who may either be stationed on the gaming flooror otherwise will be deployed to the gaming machine 10 from which theservice signal was transmitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, gaming machine 10 includes a coverassembly 40 that is positioned with respect to one or more input buttons26 to selectively provide access to the input buttons 26 for the player.More specifically, the cover assembly 40 is coupled to the cabinetassembly 12 and is configured to selectively cover a corresponding inputbutton 26. By selectively covering the corresponding input button 26,the cover assembly 40 facilitates reducing undesired actuation of theinput button 26 by the player, and prevents the player from making anundesired player selection during game play.

In one embodiment, the cover assembly 40 is oriented adjacent to theservice call button 28, and is configured to selectively cover theservice call button 28 to reduce accidental contact with the inputbutton 26 by the player that may result in a service call signal beingtransmitted to a casino employee. In addition, the cover assembly 40 isconfigured to enable a player to access the service call button 28 toactuate the service call button 28 to request assistance from a casinoattendant.

FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of the cover assembly 40. FIG. 3 is aschematic front view of the cover assembly 40. FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 areschematic side views of the cover assembly 40. In the illustratedembodiment, the cover assembly 40 includes a cover 42 that is coupled tothe cabinet surface 22, and is oriented with respect to one or moreinput button 26 to selectively cover the input buttons 26. In oneembodiment, the cover 42 is sized and shaped to selectively cover oneinput button 26. Alternatively, the cover 42 may be sized and shaped toselectively cover a plurality of input buttons 26.

The cover 42 is movable between a first position, i.e. a closed position44 (shown in FIG. 4), and a second position, i.e. an open position 46(shown in FIG. 5). In the closed position 44 the cover 42 at leastpartially encapsulates the input button 26 to prevent a player fromactuating and/or pressing the input button 26. In the open position, thecover 42 does not encapsulate the input button 26, and allows the playeraccess to the input button 26 to enable the player to actuate the inputbutton 26.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 42 includes a top wall 48 and asidewall 50 that extends outwardly from the top wall 48 towards thecabinet surface 22. The sidewall 50 includes an inner surface 52 thatdefines a cavity 54 that is sized and shaped to at least partiallyreceive the input button 26 therein. Moreover, the cavity 54 is sizedand shaped such that the input button 26 is positioned within the cavity54 with the cover assembly 40 in the closed position 44. In oneembodiment, the sidewall 50 extends obliquely from the top wall 48.Alternatively, the sidewall 50 may extends substantially perpendicularlyfrom the top wall 48. In addition, in one embodiment, the input button26 includes an outer surface 56 that has first cross-sectional shape 58,and the inner surface 52 defines the cavity 54 having a secondcross-sectional shape 60 that is substantially similar to the inputbutton cross-sectional shape 58. Alternatively, the cover cavity 54 mayinclude a cross-sectional shape 60 that is different than the inputbutton cross-sectional shape 58. In the illustrated embodiment, inputbutton 26 and cover 42 each include a substantially squarecross-sectional shape.

The sidewall 50 includes a bottom surface 62 that extends outwardly fromthe top wall 48 along a vertical axis 64, and a height 66 measurebetween the bottom surface 62 and the top wall 48 along the verticalaxis 64. The bottom surface 62 is oriented adjacent the cabinet surface22 with the cover assembly 40 in the closed position 44. The inputbutton 26 includes a height 68 that is measured from the cabinet surface22 to the button surface 56 along the vertical axis 64. In oneembodiment, the cover height 66 is greater than the button height 68such that a gap 70 is defined between the button surface 56 and the topwall 48 when the cover assembly 40 is in the closed position 44.Alternatively, the cover height 66 may be approximately equal to thebutton height 68 such that the top wall 48 is oriented adjacent to thebutton surface 56 when the cover assembly 40 is in the closed position44.

The cover sidewall 50 includes a forward end wall 72, a rear end wall74, a first sidewall 76, and a second opposite sidewall 78. The firstand second sidewalls 76 and 78 extend between the forward end wall 72and the rear end wall 74 along a longitudinal axis 80 such that thecavity 54 is defined between the forward and rear end walls 72 and 74,and between the first and second sidewalls 76 and 78. The forward endwall 72 and the rear end wall 74 extend between the first and secondsidewalls 76 and 78 along a transverse axis 82.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 42 includes a length 84 that ismeasured between the forward and rear end walls 72 and 74 along thelongitudinal axis 80, and a width 86 that is measured between the firstand second sidewalls 76 and 78 along the transverse axis 82. Similarly,input button 26 includes a length 88 measured along the longitudinalaxis 80, and a width 90 measured along the transverse axis 82. In oneembodiment, the cover width 86 is larger than the input button width 90such that a gap 92 is defined between the first sidewall 76 and theinput button 26, and between the second sidewall 78 and the input button26 with the cover 42 in the closed position 44. In addition, the coverlength 84 is larger than the input button length 88 such that a gap 94is defined between the forward end wall 72 and the input button 26, andbetween the rear end wall 74 and the input button 26 with the cover 42in the closed position 44. In an alternative embodiment, the coverlength 84 is less than the input button length 88 such that a portion ofthe input button 26 extends outwardly from the cavity 54 with the cover42 in the closed position 44. In addition, the cover width 86 may beless than the input button width 90 such that a portion of the inputbutton 26 extends outwardly from the cavity 54 with the cover 42 in theclosed position 44.

In one embodiment, the rear end wall 74 is pivotably coupled to thecabinet surface 22 such that a pivot point 96 is defined between therear end wall 74 and the cabinet assembly 12. The cover 42 is configuredto pivot, represented by arrow 98, about the pivot point 96 as the cover42 is moved between the closed position 44 and the open position 46.Moreover, as the cover 42 moves from the closed position 44 to the openposition 46, the forward end wall 72 rotates about the pivot point 96such that the bottom surface 62 of the forward end wall 72 is positionedabove the input button 26 to enable the player to access the inputbutton 26. In an alternative embodiment, the cover 42 may be slideablycoupled to the cabinet surface 22 such that the cover 42 is movable withrespect to the input button 26 along a transverse direction 100 that issubstantially parallel to the transverse axis 82 between the closedposition 44 and the open position 46. Alternatively, the cover 42 may bemovable along a longitudinal direction 102 that is substantiallyparallel with the longitudinal axis 80. Moreover, cover sidewall 50 mayinclude an opening 104 (shown in FIG. 7) that is sized and shaped to atleast partially receive the input button 26 therethrough, such that theinput button 26 extends at least partially through the opening 104 asthe cover 42 is moved from the closed position 44 to an open position(not shown) that allows the player access to the input button 26.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover assembly 40 also includes asupport assembly 106 that is coupled to the cabinet assembly surface 22and is oriented adjacent to the input button 26. The cover 42 is coupledto the support assembly 106 such that the cover 42 is supported from thecabinet assembly 12 by the support assembly 106. In one embodiment, therear end wall 74 is pivotably coupled to the support assembly 106 suchthat the pivot point 96 is defined between the support assembly 106 andthe rear end wall 74. Alternatively, the cover 42 may be slideablycoupled to the support assembly 106 such that cover 42 is movable alongthe cabinet surface 22 in the longitudinal direction 102 and/or thetransverse direction 104.

The support assembly 106 includes a support plate 108 that is coupled tothe cabinet surface 22, and a hinge assembly 110 that is coupled to thesupport plate 108 and the cover 42. The hinge assembly 110 includes thepivot point 96, and is configured to enable the cover 42 to pivot 98with respect to the support plate 108. The support plate 108 is coupledto the cabinet assembly 12 with an adhesive layer 112. The adhesivelayer 112 may include a double sided tape, a glue, an epoxy and/or anysuitable adhesive material that enables cover assembly 40 to function asdescribed herein. Alternatively, the support plate 108 may be coupled tothe cabinet surface 22 with a rivet, a screw, a bolt, a one-way push/nopull pin, a weld, and/or any suitable fastening means that enables thecover assembly 40 to function as described herein. In addition, in oneembodiment, the support plate 108 is removably coupled to the cabinetassembly 12 to enable an attendant to remove the cover assembly 40 fromthe cabinet assembly 12. In another embodiment, the cover assembly 40may be integrally formed with the cabinet assembly 12.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective views of the cover assembly 40. FIG. 8 isa perspective view of the support assembly 106. FIG. 9 is a perspectiveview of the cover 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge assembly110 includes a pair 114 of axially-spaced support brackets 116 thatextend outwardly from the support plate 108 towards the top wall 48. Thehinge assembly 110 also includes a support flange 118 that extendsoutwardly from an outer surface 120 of the rear end wall 74 towards thesupport brackets 116. The support brackets 116 are spaced along thetransverse axis 82 such that a gap 122 is defined between adjacentsupport brackets 116. The gap 122 is sized and shaped to receive thesupport flange 118 therein to couple the cover 42 to the support plate108. The support brackets 116 and the support flange 118 each include anopening 124 that is sized and shaped to receive a pin 126 therethrough.The pin 126 is inserted through the corresponding openings 124 and isconfigured to enable the cover 42 to pivot with respect to the supportassembly 106 about the pin 126. In one embodiment, the rear end wall 74includes a groove 128 that extends through a bottom portion 130 of therear end wall 74. The groove 128 is sized and shaped to at leastpartially receive the support plate 108 therein such that the sidewallbottom surface 62 is oriented adjacent to the cabinet surface 22 withthe cover 42 in the closed position 44.

In the illustrated embodiment, the forward end wall 72 includes arecessed portion 132 that defines an opening 134 that extends throughthe forward end wall 72. Moreover, the recessed portion 132 includes abottom surface 136 having an arcuate shape that at least partiallydefines the opening 134. In addition, the forward end wall 72 alsoincludes an outer surface 138 and a flange member 140 that extendsoutwardly from the outer surface 138. The flange member 140 ispositioned above the forward end wall opening 134 to facilitate a playermoving the cover 42 from the closed position 44 to the open position 46.

In one embodiment, the cover assembly 40 may be formed from atranslucent or opaque plastic or composite material. Alternatively, thecover assembly 40 may include a metal such as, for example, an aluminum,pewter, steel, steel alloy, and/or stainless steel. In addition, thecover assembly 40 may be molded, cast, extruded, punched or machineddepending on the appropriate materials. Moreover, the cover assembly 40may include an outer surface finish that may be brushed, painted, powdercoated and/or other plated finish.

In one embodiment, the top wall 48 includes an outer surface 142, and anotification indicia 144 that is coupled to the outer surface 142. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the notification indicia 144 includes anindication to the player to lift the cover 42 to access the input button26. Alternatively, the notification indicia 144 may include any labeland/or indicator that provides information to the player to enable theplayer to access the input button 26 and/or notify the player of theoperation of the input button 26. In addition, the notification indicia144 may be coupled to the sidewall 50. In one embodiment, the top wallouter surface 142 is substantially planar (shown in FIG. 4). In anotherembodiment, the top wall outer surface 142 includes a substantially domeshape (shown in FIG. 6).

FIGS. 10 and 11 are schematic side views of the cover assembly 40. FIGS.12-14 are schematic top views of the cover assembly 40. In oneembodiment, the hinge assembly 110 includes a pin and hoop hinge 146. Inaddition, the hinge assembly 110 may include a biasing element 148 thatis coupled to the support assembly 106 and the cover 42 for biasing thecover 42 from the open position 46 towards the closed position 44. Thebiasing element 148 may include a spring, a resistance member, and/orany suitable biasing member that enables the cover assembly 40 tofunction as described herein. In addition, the biasing element 148 maybe configured to move the cover 42 from the open position 46 to theclosed position 44 at a predefined rate of closure.

In one embodiment, support assembly 106 includes a swivel assembly 150that is coupled to the support assembly 106 and to the cover 42 toenable the cover 42 to pivot, represented by arrow 152, with respect tothe cabinet surface 22. More specifically, the swivel assembly 150 isconfigured to enable the cover 42 to pivot 152 about an axis 154 thatextends through the swivel assembly 150 and is oriented substantiallyparallel to the vertical axis 64.

With reference to FIGS. 12 through 14, in one embodiment, input button26 and cover 42 each include a rectangular cross-sectional shape 160. Inanother embodiment, input button 26 and cover 42 each include asubstantially circular cross-sectional shape 162. In a furtherembodiment, input button 26 and cover 42 each include a substantiallyelliptical cross-sectional shape 164.

During operation, EGM 10 detects data signals that are associated withthe initiation of a service or assistance request from a service requestsignal actuator such as, for example service call button 28 withoutimpacting other communications, operations or signals within EGM 10.However, in some embodiments, EGM 10 may, upon detection of auser-initiated assistance request, facilitate the temporary interruptionof game play or otherwise disable play until the assistance request isconfirmed or negated as discussed herein. If confirmed, the interruptionmay continue until a response to the request is received, which may beelectronically through the EGM display, another system, or via a staffvisit, for example. If the assistance request is not confirmed orotherwise negated, then if EGM 10 had been placed in a suspended state,then the suspension will be released and EGM 10 will return to the priorstate before the assistance request had been detected. In otherembodiments, EGM 10 will not be placed in a suspended state at all oronly if the assistance request is confirmed.

EGM 10 responds to the detection of a user-initiated assistance requestfrom service request service call button 28 by suspending furthertransmission of the signal and causing a presentation display device 14.It should be understood that display device 14 could be the main displayof EGM 10, a secondary game display, a player tracking display, or otherdisplay operatively associated with EGM 10.

In this embodiment, the presentation on display device 14 is intended toconfirm the user-initiated assistance request detected by the EGM 10.Thus, it should be understood that any presentation may be shown ondisplay device 14 which is reasonably intended to confirm the assistancerequest, such as a query, a confirmation button, a request to depressthe mechanical service button again, or the like. If confirmation of theservice request is received after the presentation on display device 14,then such confirmation will generate a signal which will be detected bythe gaming controller. Upon detection of the confirmation signal, thegaming controller will either allow or otherwise transmit the servicerequest signal to a service request indicator (not shown). The servicerequest indicator may include an EGM service light or “candle” which isilluminated upon confirmation of the service request by the gamingcontroller. The service request indicator may also include or be part ofa system in which a remote device which is monitored by the appropriatestaff members overseeing and providing maintenance for gaming flooroperations receives a notification of the service request and the originthereof which is transmitted through the gaming controller.

The gaming controller causes the display of a query or prompt on thedisplay device 14 of EGM 10 requesting that the player confirm thatassistance is needed. Anyone requiring service can activate a servicerequest via a button or touch screen. It is envisioned that the promptmay be in the form of a window of any size, in any location on the maindisplay device 14 and directly over the underlying normal game displayshown on display device 14, on a secondary display that is above themain screen, or any other display means attached to the gaming machine.The presentation of the prompt or prompt window may result in thesuspense of further game play. Display of the prompt may also include onthe display device 14 touch screen buttons that confirm, deny, (i.e.,indicate “yes” or “no”) or time out the service request. In oneembodiment, the time out may be visually displayed to the player oralternatively, internally tracked. If no response is given within thepredetermined time limit, then game play is resumed on EGM 10.

It should be understood that the system and method of the invention mayalso be used with gaming machines that signal a service request throughalternate means, including wirelessly or through a visual indicatorassociated with the EGM 10. In such embodiments, the service requestsignal transmitted to a service request indicator, whether it be througha flashing, illuminated candle or otherwise, will be delayed until therequest for assistance is confirmed by the player according to theinstructions provided by the prompt window.

In one embodiment, the gaming machine 10 receives data that a servicerequest is received. The game play on the machine 10 may be suspended orotherwise interrupted in response thereto. A prompt is displayed on thegaming machine display which communicates that a service request hasbeen received and confirmation of the request is necessary to receiveassistance. The prompt may also indicate to the player that the servicerequest will not proceed unless a response is received within a certainamount of time.

The system of the invention determines whether confirmation has beenreceived. For example, a button can be on the screen or the player canconfirm by pressing the service mechanical button again or alternativelymay remove the request by pressing the service button again. If therequest for assistance is confirmed, then the request is relayed to themonitoring system or otherwise made active by the monitoring system sothat an attendant is deployed to the specified gaming machine from whichthe confirmed request originated. The confirmation is also communicatedto an indicator, such as a candle on the gaming machine. As mentionedabove, the game may be suspended upon the confirmation of the servicerequest, but alternatively in another embodiment, play of the game maynot be suspended.

If the request is denied, or similarly, times out, then the servicerequest will not be acted upon. The activation of the deny button willallow the gaming machine to return to its normal function and continueplay. Similarly, if there is no signal to the gaming machine that eitherconfirm or deny buttons have been activated, then after a predeterminedtime, in this embodiment the prompt will remove and the game willcontinue play. In another embodiment, there is no predetermined timeframe and the prompt will stay on the display until a button isactivated. In another embodiment, the deny button signal may berecognized by mechanically activated. For example, the prompt on thedisplay could instruct the player to press the service mechanical buttonagain to deny.

It should be understood that the device may be installed in an existingEGM or fully incorporated as an additional system in the programming ofan EGM. It should be further understood that some embodiments mayfurther employ adding hardware, firmware, or software to a gamingmachine to facilitate the functions or configurations described herein.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that methods andsystems of the embodiments of the invention described herein may includevarious computer and network related software and hardware, such asprograms, operating systems, memory storage devices, input/outputdevices, processors, servers, data communication links, whether wirelessor otherwise, and data transceiving devices. Those skilled in the artwill further appreciate that the precise types of software and hardwareused are not vital to the full implementation of the invention so longas embodiments thereof are provided in accordance with the methods andsystems described herein.

It should be understood that the embodiments of the present inventionmay be implemented to confirm assistance requests in one or more EGMs,one or more gaming establishments and throughout multiple jurisdictions.Moreover, the systems and methods according to the embodiments of thepresent invention are suitable for all varieties of gaming machines andplatforms, as well as non-gambling electronic devices (e.g., arcadegames).

The above-described apparatus and systems overcome at least some of thedisadvantages of known gaming machines by providing a cover assemblythat selectively covers a service call button to facilitate preventingundesired actuation of the service call button by a player. By providinga cover assembly that selectively covers the service call button, theoccurrences of the player inadvertently pressing the service call buttonand requesting an casino attendant is reduced. As such, the cost ofoperating a gaming machine is reduced.

Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine and a button cover assemblyfor use with gaming machines are described above in detail. The systemsand methods are not limited to the specific embodiments describedherein, but rather, components of the apparatus and/or steps of themethods may be utilized independently and separately from othercomponents and/or steps described herein. For example, the methods mayalso be used in combination with other gaming devices, and are notlimited to practice with only the gaming machine as described herein.Rather, the exemplary embodiment can be implemented and utilized inconnection with many other gaming device applications.

For instance, the embodiments herein may be incorporated with an EGM asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/365,551, that is, anEGM including programming which is responsive to actuation of theservice button to provide a prompt on the display, wherein the promptrequests confirmation of the intention to actuate the service button andassociated assistance. In one embodiment of this invention, the servicebutton of the aforementioned EGM is a mechanical button which furtherincludes a cover assembly and/or other features of the invention asdescribed herein.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal language of the claims.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specificembodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the inventionmay be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of theclaims.

1. A cover assembly for use with a gaming machine, the gaming machineincluding a plurality of input buttons coupled to a cabinet assembly,said cover assembly comprising a cover coupled to the cabinet assemblyand oriented with respect to at least one button of the plurality ofbuttons, said cover movable between a first position wherein said coverat least partially encapsulates the at least one input button, and asecond position wherein said cover does not encapsulate the input buttonsuch that the input button is accessible by a player of the gamingmachine.
 2. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 1, wherein saidcover comprises a top wall and a sidewall extending outwardly from saidtop wall, said sidewall comprising an inner surface that defines acavity that is configured to receive the at least one input buttontherein.
 3. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 2, wherein theinput button includes an outer surface having a first shape, said coverinner surface having a second shape that is substantially similar to theinput button first shape.
 4. A cover assembly in accordance with claim2, wherein said cover sidewall comprises a forward end wall, a rear endwall, a first sidewall, and a second opposite sidewall, wherein saidsidewalls extend between said end walls such that said cavity is definedbetween said forward and rear end walls and between said first andsecond sidewalls.
 5. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 4,wherein said forward end wall comprises a bottom surface that defines anopening that extends through said forward end wall.
 6. A cover assemblyin accordance with claim 4, wherein said forward end wall comprises anouter surface and a flange member extending outwardly from said outersurface.
 7. A cover assembly for use with a gaming machine, the gamingmachine including a cabinet assembly including an outer surface, and atleast one input button coupled to the cabinet assembly outer surface,said cover assembly comprising: a support assembly coupled to thecabinet assembly surface and oriented adjacent to the at least one inputbutton; and a cover coupled to the support assembly, said supportassembly configured to support said cover from the cabinet assembly,said cover comprising a top wall and a sidewall extending outwardly fromsaid top wall, said sidewall comprising an inner surface that defines acavity that is configured to receive the at least one input buttontherein, said cover is movable between a first position wherein saidcover at least partially encapsulates the input button, and a secondposition wherein said cover does not encapsulate the input button suchthat the input button is accessible by a player of the gaming machine.8. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 7, wherein the at least oneinput button includes an outer surface having a first shape, said coverinner surface includes a second shape that is substantially similar tothe input button first shape.
 9. A cover assembly in accordance withclaim 7, wherein said sidewall extends obliquely from said top wall. 10.A cover assembly in accordance with claim 7, wherein said sidewallextends substantially perpendicularly from said top wall.
 11. A coverassembly in accordance with claim 7, wherein said top wall comprises anouter surface, and a notification indicia coupled to said outer surface.12. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 7, further comprising abiasing element coupled to said support assembly and said cover forbiasing said cover from the second position towards the first position.13. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 7, wherein said coversidewall comprises a forward end wall, a rear end wall, a firstsidewall, and a second opposite sidewall, wherein said sidewalls extendbetween said end walls such that said cavity is defined between saidforward and rear end walls and between said first and second sidewalls,said rear end wall coupled to said support assembly for supporting saidcover from said support assembly.
 14. A cover assembly in accordancewith claim 13, wherein said support assembly includes a support plateand a pair of axially-spaced support brackets extending outwardly fromsaid support plate, said rear end wall comprising an outer surface and asupport flange extending outwardly from said outer surface towards saidsupport assembly, said support flange oriented between said pair ofsupport brackets.
 15. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 13,wherein said forward end wall comprises a bottom surface having asubstantially arcuate shape that defines an opening that extends throughsaid forward end wall.
 16. A cover assembly in accordance with claim 13,wherein said forward end wall comprises an outer surface and a flangemember extending outwardly from said outer surface.
 17. A gaming machinecomprising: a cabinet assembly comprising an outer surface; a displaydevice coupled to said cabinet assembly, said display device configuredto display a game; a plurality of input buttons coupled to said cabinetassembly to enable a player to play the game; and a cover assemblycoupled to said cabinet assembly and oriented with respect to at leastinput button of said plurality of input buttons, said cover assemblycomprising a cover coupled to said cabinet assembly, said cover movablebetween a first position wherein said cover at least partiallyencapsulates the at least one input button, and a second positionwherein said cover does not encapsulate the input button such that theinput button is accessible by the player.
 18. A gaming machine inaccordance with claim 17, wherein said cover assembly further comprisesa support assembly coupled to said cabinet assembly outer surface, saidcover coupled to said support assembly such that said support assemblysupports said cover from said cabinet assembly.
 19. A gaming machine inaccordance with claim 18, wherein said cover comprises a top wall and asidewall extending outwardly from said top wall, said sidewallcomprising an inner surface that defines a cavity that is configured toreceive said at least one input button therein, said sidewall comprisinga forward end wall, a rear end wall, a first sidewall, and a secondopposite sidewall, wherein said sidewalls extend between said end wallssuch that said cavity is defined between said end walls and saidsidewalls, said rear end wall coupled to said support assembly forsupporting said cover from said support assembly, said forward end wallcomprising an outer surface and a flange member extending outwardly fromsaid forward end wall outer surface.
 20. A gaming machine in accordancewith claim 19, wherein said forward end wall further comprises a bottomsurface that defines an opening that extends through said forward endwall.